Ramos: Duterte's first 100 days a letdown

In this September 14 photo, President Rodrigo Duterte meets with former President and Special Envoy to China Fidel Ramos in Malacañan’s Orchid Room. Also in the photo is National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon. Presidential Photographers Division/Toto Lozano

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is "losing badly" in the first 100 days of President Rodrigo Duterte in office, former President Fidel Ramos said.

"This is a huge disappointment and let-down to many of us," Ramos said in a column published in the Manila Bulletin.

Ramos based his assessment of Duterte's first 100 days on two concepts of importance — leadership and teamwork.

The former president, however, noted that there is enough time to correct the flaws of the current administration so that the Philippines can emerge as a competitive country.

"The outcome aspired for by the majority of us is to insure the better future of our younger generations, who in due time — will assume the mantle of leadership over our nation's political, security, cultural, economic and other interests," Ramos said.

"The Philippines has a rich history and tradition of hosting refugees from all around the world. First, the Jewish people to whom our country gave sanctuary in the late 1930s and early 1940," the former president said.

In 1938, the Philippines opened its doors to more than 100,000 Jews to resettle in Mindanao, particularly in Bukidnon.

"In the case of his recent 'Hitler quip' no amount of apology could mollify the long-suffering Jews who have done well for the Philippines," Ramos said.

Ramos also criticized Duterte's treatment on the country's relationship with the United States, particularly on security and economic matters.